The Nigerian international played the full 90 minutes but failed to find the net or provide an assist, ending his run of contributing directly to a goal in every appearance this season.
Speaking on the Spor Gecesi Digital YouTube channel, Ateş argued that the Nigerian international’s demeanour appears to change when he fails to find the back of the net, suggesting that the striker’s confidence and approach are closely tied to scoring goals.
“I don't like Osimhen's body language. When Osimhen doesn't score, he switches to a different version of himself because he thrives on goals,” Ateş was quoted as saying by Habersarikirmizi.
The former Galatasaray player also questioned Osimhen’s judgment in a particular attacking situation during the encounter, claiming that the striker missed an opportunity to set up Deniz Gül for a simple finish into an unguarded net.
According to Ateş, Osimhen made the wrong choice in the moment, although he stopped short of suggesting that the decision was deliberate.
“He didn't pass to Deniz Gül so he could score into an empty net. He didn't pass to Deniz, he passed to Batrakov. It wasn't intentional, but his choice was wrong,” he added.
The criticism comes despite Osimhen’s continued importance to Galatasaray, with the Nigerian forward having recorded six goals and three assists since the start of the campaign.
His contribution has remained significant as the Istanbul club competes across multiple competitions, with expectations high for the striker to maintain his impressive scoring form.
However, Ateş’s comments have brought renewed attention to Osimhen’s on-field demeanour and decision-making, particularly when he is unable to make a direct impact on the scoresheet.
The Super Eagles star will now look to respond on the pitch in Galatasaray’s upcoming fixtures, as the club seeks to sustain its momentum and pursue its ambitions across domestic and continental competitions.